陳嘉燕 (中英翻譯學士學位課程)
Chan Ka In (Bachelor of Arts in Chinese-English Translation and Interpretation)

 

I hope to express my gratitude to Macao Polytechnic Institute, the Global Professionals Program held by Monash College and The Student Affairs Office, I am really thankful that I can participate in this three-week overseas study programme.

In the past three weeks, I enhanced my English proficiency to assist with social and business interactions, established an understanding of what qualities and skills employers are looking for in a graduate and gained an insight into Australian workplace practices and business challenges through lectures and industry visits. During the CPA visits, I was deeply impressed by the speaker’s talk. One of the speakers, Mandy said, try to learn as much as you can. Don't be afraid to make mistakes because no one is perfect and everyone learns from their mistakes. Her experience taught me that we should be well prepared until the opportunity comes. Whether you are successful or not, it doesn't depend on fortune. Moreover, I learned that internship experience and volunteer experience are very important while having an interview. Their advice was practical and informative and it brought positive effect to my future career life.

But most of all, I experienced Australian culture by living and studying in Melbourne. Everything in Melbourne was totally a new experience for me including taking the train to campus or wandering in the street. I tried to make a good use of my leisure time and I had been to many places, e.g. Federation square, Melbourne Zoo, Immigration Museum, Queen Victoria Market, etc.  During weekend, I went skiing and skydiving. These were my first attempts in my life, and I found that skiing was quite a challenging sport because it was hard for me not to bump into the others. The day that I went skydiving was cloudy and foggy. I almost froze, but I really enjoyed it. Skydiving was breathtaking, and it gave me a new perspective to enjoy the beauty of Melbourne's landscape. Also, I joined the day tour to go to the Great Ocean Road. The scenery was magnificent and spectacular. I do believe that must be the masterpiece of the Creator. I tried Puffing Billy, and it was worthwhile to try it because I had a great time with my friends. On Wednesday night, I went to a bar, took a glass of beer in my hand, and chatted with strangers. It was nice to make friends with people who come from different countries. What impressed me most was Australians' hospitality and sense of humour. They are always willing to give a hand, when you need help and they are good at using their unexpected humour to break the ice.

Last but not the least, I would like to thank my host family because without their patient guidance, I wouldn't adapt to the life in Melbourne in such a short period of time. My host family is nice, easy-going, and hospitable. I am obliged to the knowledge and information they provided me, I appreciate every meal they cooked for me, and I cherish the moment that we spent together. At last, I want to say thank you to everyone who gave me help in this trip and thank them for being part of my life.